International Institute of Fisheries Economics and Trade
Abstract
Uganda’s fisheries sub-sector is predominantly supported by traditional small-scale fisheries which plays a vital role in food security and livelihoods of at least 5.3 million Ugandans. Nonetheless, this role has not been adequately characterized and quantified. Here, we report part of the work undertaken between June 2010 and December 2013 among fisher communities of L. Albert. Using recommended survey tools, 350 fishers from 5 landing sites around the lake were interviewed purposively to probe their role in food security and livelihoods. Results indicated that 160,000MT of fish valued at US800Mwasharvestedannuallyandmarketedlocallyandregionally.Thestudysitescontributed85.7 700.8 million while at household level, the average daily income was pitifully low US26althoughabovethepovertyline.About90 5,000 annual and only US$ 100 for processor. The per capita fish consumption at study sites was 4.4kg above the national current value. Generally, traditional small-scale fisheries contributed immensely to food security and livelihoods of other people but it was inadequately reflected among the fisher communities themselves.Keywords: Fishing Sector Behavior & Activities, Fisheries Economics, Small Scale and Artisanal Fisherie